One of the most original albums this reviewer has heard in a long time, The Freedom Spark is part concept album, part joyful excursion into madcap rock mixed up with lean ska and intelligent pop rhythms.

Divided into three sections - Hate, Fairytale and Freedom - the album starts with thoroughly upbeat and danceable guitar and fiddle-led tunes laid over dark and brooding lyrics, with the Pogues-y - and first single - Happy As Annie being the highlight, before things get reflective in a John Otway/Ray Davies kinda way with Fell At The Feet Of Rae, the Fairytale part.

The final instalment, Freedom, is rather more pop and skanky mainstream stuff, but still quirky enough to keep the originality quotient as high as you could wish for.

Its concept-esque nature means this is a record best listened to in one go, but at a shade under 34 minutes it's no trial to take the time and trouble.

Rating:
Released: 25th September 2006
Label: Infectious